Somewhere at major research institutions like Cornell University is precisely the technology resource that small, innovative companies might need to jump-start new projects.

Now the Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR), in cooperation with statewide Regional Technology Development Centers (RTDCs) and funded by the New York State Office for Science, Technology and Academic Research (NYSTAR), is offering a "magnet" to help companies find their technology "needle" in the university's research-resources "haystack."

Applications are now being accepted for the first round of the CCMR-NYSTAR Exploratory Grants program.

Explains Frank Disalvo, professor of chemistry and CCMR's director: "The Exploratory Grant is designed to help small companies realize the potential value of working with the university. We're on the forefront of nano- and materials-technology, and our researchers are looking to solve problems or understand how this technology can provide a commercial advantage; this grant makes the first steps in that process easier on both sides of the equation. The program aims to structure research projects of mutual interest with the intention to lead to greater project funding and technology licensing."

Robert Trachtenberg, CEO of the Central New York Technology Development Organization (a CCMR partner and NYSTAR-funded RTDC) agrees: "We've helped many companies in our region become quicker and better at what they do. Now they're looking to upgrade their products with new technology to pace themselves ahead of increasing foreign competition. This grant will certainly help satisfy this growing need."

The needle quest begins with an easy, one-page application. Companies are asked to contribute $2,500 in seed money, which is matched 3-to-1 by the Exploratory Grant program to produce $10,000 for university time, research efforts, materials and facilities services. Then the grant recipient, CCMR program staff and faculty members put their heads together to determine the scope of the discovery efforts and develop a project plan.

Patrick Govang, CCMR director of industrial partnerships, says the first preference is for small New York state companies, followed by any companies operating within the state. "We're looking for companies that are not currently funding faculty research at Cornell, whose proposal aligns with CCMR research and expertise, and who intend to extend research activity beyond the semester-long grant duration. This grant is the culmination of the center's small business outreach program which was developed in the past year. We've worked with over 70 small businesses between Binghamton and Syracuse to build an understanding of their challenges and needs – we're grateful NYSTAR enables us to focus on serving them."

More information on CCMR-NYSTAR Exploratory Grants is available at the Web site http://www.ccmr.cornell.edu/industry/grant/ or by calling (607) 255-8809.

Says Govang: "This Exploratory Grant program is a terrific opportunity for Cornell University to share our technological expertise with those who need it most – the small companies of New York state that are doing some of the most innovative work around. Our faculty members are particularly eager to work with these innovators. We're looking forward to some great impact coming out of this program."